Michael E. Miley
Early Life
Michael Edward Miley was born on May 17, 1896, in Rye, New York, the son of John Miley and Lulu Renahan Miley. He was raised in Rye and educated in the local public schools, reflecting a life rooted in the community from an early age. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
By the time of his World War I draft registration in 1917, he was living at 31 Isabel Street in Rye and working as a chauffeur for Harry Billington, a position that reflects the service roles supporting Rye’s residential and estate economy during the early twentieth century.
World War I Service
Miley entered military service on November 21, 1917, at Fort Slocum, New York. He was initially assigned to a Replacement Company at Fort Slocum before being transferred to the 652nd Aero Squadron, part of the United States Army Air Service, which was responsible for early military aviation operations including aircraft maintenance, logistics, training, and support of aerial missions during World War I.
He was later assigned to the 334th Aero Squadron, continuing his service within the Army Air Service structure. He served overseas from August 1, 1918, to December 11, 1918, during the final phase of the war, supporting aviation operations in the American Expeditionary Forces.
During his service, he was promoted to Corporal on March 14, 1918. He sustained no wounds or injuries in action.
He was honorably discharged on December 21, 1918, following demobilization.
Life After Service
Following his return from military service, Miley remained in Rye, where he built a long and steady career. He worked for approximately forty-five years as a funeral director’s assistant and chauffeur with the William H. Graham Funeral Home, becoming a familiar figure within the community.
He was an active member of the Church of the Resurrection in Rye and belonged to the Carl Anderson American Legion Post 559 in Harrison, maintaining strong ties to both his church and fellow veterans.
Michael E. Miley died on April 26, 1963, at United Hospital in Port Chester, New York, at the age of 67 following a brief illness.
At the time of his death, he was survived by his wife, Mary Ryan Miley, of the home address; his son, John A. Miley of Rye; his sisters, Miss Jane F. Miley and Elizabeth T. Miley, both of Rye; and one nephew.